System For Distributing Volatile Substance With Base Unit And Self-Sealing Removable Capsule

ABSTRACT

A capsule is configured for use with a base unit having a fan and an air opening for an airflow of air driven by the fan. The capsule includes a housing with a port. The housing engages and disengages the base unit. The capsule also includes a volatile substance member and a seal member that is supported by the housing for movement between a sealed position and an unsealed position. The seal member seals the port when the capsule is disengaged from the base unit. The projection is received in the capsule when engaged with the base unit to support the seal member in the unsealed position such that air moved by the fan flows through the port.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The following relates to a volatile substance distribution system and,more particularly, relates to a system for distributing a volatilesubstance with a base unit and a self-sealing removable capsule.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

There are various devices used to distribute volatile materials (e.g.,perfumes, essential oils, insect repellant, etc.) into the air. Manydevices include a unit that supports the volatile material and a fan.The volatile material moves into the airstream moved by the fan fordistribution into the air.

However, conventional systems suffer from various drawbacks. Forexample, many of these devices are bulky. Also, the fan may consumerelatively high levels of electricity during use. Moreover, the volatilematerial may tend to spill or leak from the system. These and otherconcerns may considerably limit the usefulness of conventional systems.As an example, a conventional system may not be suitable for use in avehicle because the system may be too big, may require a power cord, mayspill volatile material due to movement of the vehicle, etc.

Therefore, there exists a need for a compact volatile materialdistribution system that consumes minimal amounts of power and that isunlikely to leak volatile material. Other desirable features andcharacteristics of the devices and methods of the present disclosurewill become apparent from the subsequent detailed description and theappended claims, taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings andthe preceding background.

BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

Embodiments of a capsule of a volatile substance distribution system areprovided. The capsule is configured for use with a base unit having afan and an air opening for an airflow of air driven by the fan. Invarious embodiments, the capsule includes a housing with a port. Theport is at least partly defined by a seal surface, and the housing isconfigured to move between an engaged position and a disengaged positionrelative to the base unit. The housing, in the engaged position, isremovably supported on the base unit with the port fluidly connected tothe air opening of the base unit. The housing, in the disengagedposition, is spaced apart from the base unit. The capsule also includesa volatile substance member having a volatile substance. The volatilesubstance member is contained within the housing. The capsule furtherincludes a seal member that is supported by the housing for movementbetween a sealed position and an unsealed position. At least part of theseal member seals against the seal surface to close the port when in thesealed position. The seal member is spaced at a distance from the sealsurface to open the port when in the unsealed position. The seal member,when the capsule is disengaged from the base unit, is in the sealedposition. The projection of the base unit, when the capsule is engagedwith the base unit, is received in the capsule to support the sealmember in the unsealed position such that air moved by the fan flowsthrough the port.

Embodiments of a volatile substance distribution system are alsodisclosed. In some embodiments, the volatile substance distributionsystem includes a base unit having a base unit housing that supports afan and that defines an air opening for an airflow of air driven by thefan. The base unit includes a projection that projects from the baseunit housing. The system further includes a capsule configured to beremovably supported on the base unit. The capsule includes a housingwith a port. The port is at least partly defined by a seal surface, andthe housing is configured to move between an engaged position and adisengaged position relative to the base unit. The housing, in theengaged position, is removably supported on the base unit with the portfluidly connected to the air opening of the base unit. The housing, inthe disengaged position, is spaced apart from the base unit. The capsulealso includes a volatile substance member that includes a volatilesubstance. The volatile substance member is contained within thehousing. Furthermore, the capsule includes a seal member that issupported by the housing for movement between a sealed position and anunsealed position. At least part of the seal member seals against theseal surface to close the port when in the sealed position. The at leastpart of the seal member is spaced at a distance from the seal surface toopen the port when in the unsealed position. The seal member, when thecapsule is disengaged from the base unit, is in the sealed position. Theprojection of the base unit, when the capsule is engaged with the baseunit, is received in the capsule to support the seal member in theunsealed position such that air moved by the fan flows through the port.

Methods for manufacturing a volatile substance distribution system arestill further provided. In some embodiments, the method includes forminga housing of a capsule to have a port. The port is at least partlydefined by a seal surface. The housing is configured to move between anengaged position and a disengaged position relative to a base unit. Thehousing, in the engaged position, is removably supported on the baseunit with the port fluidly connected to the air opening of the baseunit. The housing, in the disengaged position, is spaced apart from thebase unit. The method also includes providing a volatile substancemember that includes a volatile substance within the housing.Furthermore, the method includes supporting a seal member by the housingfor movement between a sealed position and an unsealed position. Atleast part of the seal member seals against the seal surface to closethe port when in the sealed position. The at least part of the sealmember is spaced at a distance from the seal surface to open the portwhen in the unsealed position. The seal member, when the capsule isdisengaged from the base unit, is in the sealed position. The sealmember, when the capsule is engaged with the base unit, is configured tobe supported in the unsealed position by a projection of the base unitthat is received in the capsule such that air moved by the fan flowsthrough the port.

The foregoing statements are provided by way of non-limiting exampleonly. Various additional examples, aspects, and other features ofembodiments of the present disclosure are encompassed by the presentdisclosure and described in more detail below.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

At least one example of the present disclosure will hereinafter bedescribed in conjunction with the following figures, wherein likenumerals denote like elements, and:

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a volatile substance distribution systemaccording to example embodiments of the present disclosure;

FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a base unit of the system of FIG. 1;

FIG. 3 is a perspective view of a capsule of the system of FIG. 1;

FIG. 4 is a section side view of the base unit and the capsule of thesystem of FIG. 1;

FIG. 5 is an exploded perspective view of the capsule of FIG. 3;

FIG. 6 is a section side view of the capsule of FIG. 3;

FIG. 7 is a section side view of part of a housing of the capsule ofFIG. 3;

FIG. 8 is a perspective view of the part of the housing of FIG. 7;

FIG. 9 is a perspective view of the capsule of the volatile substancedistribution system according to additional example embodiments of thepresent disclosure;

FIG. 10 is an exploded view of the capsule of FIG. 9; and

FIG. 11 is a section view of the capsule of FIG. 9.

For simplicity and clarity of illustration, descriptions and details ofwell-known features and techniques may be omitted to avoid unnecessarilyobscuring the exemplary and non-limiting embodiments of the presentdisclosure described in the subsequent Detailed Description. It shouldfurther be understood that features or elements appearing in theaccompanying figures are not necessarily drawn to scale unless otherwisestated.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

The following Detailed Description is merely exemplary in nature and isnot intended to limit the present disclosure or the application and usesof the same. The term “exemplary,” as appearing throughout thisdocument, is synonymous with the term “example” and is utilizedrepeatedly below to emphasize that the following description providesonly multiple non-limiting examples of the present disclosure and shouldnot be construed to restrict the scope of the present disclosure, asset-out in the claims, in any respect.

Devices for distributing a volatile substance are provided, as aremethods for manufacturing such devices. Generally, the devices describedherein may include a base unit and a capsule that may be removablysupported on the base unit. The capsule may contain a volatile substancemember and may receive an airflow that is driven by a fan of the baseunit. As the airflow moves through the capsule, the volatile substancemay enter the airstream for distribution outside the system.

The capsule and/or the base unit may include various features thatenhance the airflow between the base unit and the capsule. For example,in some embodiments, the fan of the base unit may blow air into thecapsule via an inlet port. The inlet port and/or other portions of thecapsule may be configured to ensure that air from the fan is deliveredinto the capsule in a predetermined manner. In some embodiments, forexample, a lower terminal end of the capsule may removably engage andseat within the base unit, which aligns and fluidly connects the inletport with an outlet port of the base unit. Additionally, the inlet portmay be tapered with respect to a downstream direction of the airflow(e.g., tapered inward radially) to direct the incoming airflow into andthrough the capsule. Additional features may direct the airflowefficiently and effectively through the capsule and outward to theenvironment. These and/or other features may increase efficiency of thesystem, allowing a smaller-duty fan to be used without compromising onperformance. Also, these features allow the system to be relativelycompact and ergonomic.

Furthermore, in some embodiments, the capsule may include an airflowopening as well as a seal that selectively seals the airflow opening. Insome embodiments, the capsule may include an inlet aperture and an inletseal that selectively seals and unseals the inlet aperture. Furthermore,in some embodiments, the capsule may include an outlet aperture and anoutlet seal that selectively seals and unseals the outlet aperture. Insome embodiments, the capsule may include each of an inlet aperture withan associated inlet seal as well as an outlet aperture with anassociated outlet seal. The inlet aperture and the outlet aperture (aswell as the respective seal members) may be substantially centered on alongitudinal axis of the capsule as will be discussed. The seal(s) maybe biased toward a sealed position and, therefore, may automaticallyseal when the fan is OFF and/or when the capsule is removed from thebase. In additional embodiments, the base unit and the capsule mayinclude interactive features for mechanically unsealing the capsule whensupported on the base and that allow the capsule to automaticallyre-seal when removed from the base. Furthermore, in some embodiments,the capsule may include a seal that passively opens due to air pressurefrom the airflow driven by the fan, and that passively biases to asealed position when the air pressure is reduced (e.g., when the fan isturned OFF). Accordingly, the capsule can be removed from the base andre-used later, or the capsule may be replaced with another capsule witha different scent, etc.

A volatile substance distribution system 100 will now be discussedaccording to example embodiments illustrated in FIGS. 1-8. Generally,the system 100 includes an upper end 102 and a lower end 104 and alongitudinal axis 106 that extends therebetween. It will be appreciatedthat the terms “upper” and “lower” are relative terms based on theorientation shown in the Figures and are merely used as an example.Accordingly, the upper end 102 may be referred to as a “first end” andthe lower end 104 may be referred to as a “second end.” A first radialaxis 108 and a second radial axis 109 are also indicated in relation tothe longitudinal axis 106 for reference purposes.

The volatile substance distribution system 100 may include a base unit110 (FIGS. 1, 2, and 4) and at least one volatile substance capsule 112(FIGS. 1 and 3-8). In the illustrated embodiments, the base unit 110 maybe configured for supporting a single capsule 112; however, in otherembodiments, the base 110 may be configured for supporting multiplecapsules 112. In some embodiments, the capsule 112 is a replaceable unitthat may be removably supported by the base unit 110. The capsule 112may also be referred to as a refill unit, as a cup or other container,as a pod, or as another term. The capsule 112 may be a single-use,disposable container, or the capsule 112 may be a refillable/reusablecontainer. The capsule 112 may also be recyclable in some embodiments.The system 100 may additionally include a volatile substance member 114that is contained within capsule 112. The volatile substance member 114may include or contain or otherwise comprise a volatile substance, suchas an air freshener, essential oil, perfume, aromatherapy or homeopathysubstances, materials for malodor control, insect control substances,etc. The term “volatile substance” as used herein will be understoodbroadly to include substances that readily vaporize and/or move into theair. In some embodiments, the system 100 may be configured for volatilesubstances that vaporize and move into an airstream flowing through thecapsule 112 at normal ambient temperatures. As represented in FIGS. 1and 4 and as will be described in detail, the system 100 may operatewith the base unit 110 driving airflow (represented by arrow 116)through the capsule 112. The airflow 116, therefore, may carry thevolatile substance from the member 114 and distribute it throughout theair outside the capsule 112. However, it will be appreciated that thesystem 100 may be otherwise configured, for example, to include aheating system for heating and vaporizing volatile substances, a wick,and/or other elements for delivering volatile substances into the air.

Referring now to FIGS. 1, 2, and 4, the base unit 110 will be discussedin detail according to example embodiments. The base unit 110 mayinclude a housing 122. The housing 122 may be a relatively thin-walledor shell-like rigid structure constructed from one or more pieces. Thepiece(s) of the housing 122 may define an outer side member 124, abottom member 130, and an inner member 134.

The outer side member 124 may be frusto-conic in shape and substantiallycentered about the longitudinal axis 106. The outer side member 124 maytaper outward in width as the outer side member 124 extends from theupper end 102 toward the lower end 104. The outer side member 124 mayhave a rounded (e.g., circular, ovate, etc.) cross section takenperpendicular to the axis 106. The outer side member 124 may support auser interface, such as a switch 126 and/or an indicator 128 (e.g., adisplay, a speaker, etc.). In some embodiments, a user may use theswitch 126 to turn the system 100 ON and/or OFF. Also, the indicator 128(e.g., display, etc.) may output information about operation of thesystem 100. For example, the indicator 128 may indicate the ON stateand/or the OFF state of the system 100. The indicator 128 may also beconfigured for indicating whether power levels are low (e.g., toindicate that batteries should be changed). Furthermore, in someembodiments, the indicator 128 may be configured for indicating when tochange the capsule 112. Other user interfaces fall within the scope ofthe present disclosure. For example, the base unit 110 may include atouch-sensitive surface for inputting a user command. In furtherembodiments, the system 100 may be enabled for remote control, and aremote unit may supply the user interface. In these embodiments, thesystem 100 may be controlled wirelessly by a remote control dedicated tothe system 100. In other embodiments, the system 100 may be wirelesslycontrolled via Bluetooth, WiFi, or other wireless signal such that thesystem 100 may be controlled via a cellular phone, an electronic tablet,etc. It will be appreciated that different embodiments of the system 100may provide the user with different levels of control over itsoperations. Some embodiments of the system 100 may provide the user witha high level of control, wherein the user may select and control ON/OFFof system 100, speed or other fan settings, the duration of operation,lighting, alarm sounds, and/or other features. Other embodiments of thesystem 100 may be more restrictive with some features (e.g., theduration of operation) being controlled automatically.

The bottom member 130 of the housing 122 may be rounded and bowl-shaped.The bottom member 130 may be fixedly attached to the outer side member124 of the housing 122 proximate the lower end 104. The bottom member130 may include a relatively flat or otherwise supportive bottom surfacefor standing the bottom base unit 110 upright. The bottom member 130 mayhave a rounded cross section taken perpendicular to the longitudinalaxis 106. In some embodiments, the width of the bottom member 130(measured perpendicular to the axis 106) and the shape of the bottommember 130 may be configured for certain uses and environments. Forexample, the bottom member 130 may be sized and shaped to fit within astandard vehicle cupholder. Thus, the rounded shape and relatively smallwidth may allow the base unit 110 to be received in the cup holder andthe system 100 can freshen air within a vehicle.

The bottom member 130 may also include a plurality of apertures 132(first apertures or inlet apertures). The apertures 132 may be elongateslots that extend through the thickness of the bottom member 130. Insome embodiments, the apertures 132 may provide an inlet passage for theairflow 116 into the base unit 110.

The inner member 134 of the housing 122 may define a receptacle 136 ofthe housing 122. the receptacle 136 may be open at the upper end 102.The receptacle 136 may extend from the outer side member 124, and thereceptacle 136 may be recessed from the upper end 102 toward the lowerend 104 along the axis 106. The receptacle 136 may be centered about theaxis 106. The receptacle 136 may be shaped and sized according to thecapsule 112. Thus, in some embodiments, the receptacle 136 may becup-shaped and rounded for receiving the capsule 112. The depth of thereceptacle 136 may be sufficient to receive the majority of the capsule112. For example, as shown in FIGS. 1 and 4, the receptacle 136 may bedeep enough such that capsule 112 is nested with the upper rim of thecapsule 112 remaining exposed. The receptacle 136 may also be referredto as a docking station for the capsule 112.

The receptacle 136 may be defined by an upper rim 138, which is attachedto the outer side member 124 proximate the upper end 102. The upper rim138 may include an inner ledge 140, which may extend substantiallyperpendicular to the axis 106 and inward radially toward the axis 106.The inner ledge 140 may be annular and may extend about the axis 106.The receptacle 136 may also include a side wall 142, which may becylindrical and which may depend downward along the axis 106 from theledge 140. Additionally, the receptacle 136 may be defined by a lowersupport 144. The lower support 144 may extend transverse to the axis 106and may be attached to the lower end of the side wall 142. The lowersupport 144 may include an outer ledge 145 projecting inward radiallyslightly from the lower end of the side wall 142, a disc-shaped centralsupport member 146, and a plurality of elongate support members 148 thatattach the central support member 146 to the outer ledge 145. Theelongate support members 148 may radiate away from the central supportmember 146 and may be spaced apart equally circumferentially about theaxis 106. As shown in FIG. 2, there may be three elongate supportmembers 148 that are spaced apart approximately one-hundred-twentydegrees) (120°) from each other about the axis 106.

The base unit 110 may further include a conduit opening that isproximate the receptacle 136, such as an air outlet 150. The air outlet150 may be defined by and may be included in the lower support 144. Insome embodiments, air outlet 150 may be substantially arcuate, with theelongate support members 148 extending transversely across the airoutlet 150. In some embodiments, the elongate support members 148 maysub-divide the air outlet 150, and the sub-divided units of the airoutlet 150 may be defined circumferentially between neighboring pairs ofthe plurality of elongate support members 148. These sub-units may bedefined radially between the central support member 146 and the outerledge 145. The sub-units of the air outlet 150 may be arch-shaped insome embodiments. The air outlet 150 may be in fluid communication withthe apertures 132 of the bottom member 130 such that the airflow 116 maymove through the base unit 110. Thus, as will be discussed, the airoutlet 150 may blow air out of the base unit 110, upward along the axis106, and into the capsule 112 in a downstream flow direction through thecapsule 112.

The base unit 110 may further include one or more projections 152 (FIGS.2 and 4). The projections 152 may be elongate rods, pins, or similarstructures that are fixed at one end to the central support member 146and that extend freely upward along the axis 106. In some embodiments,there may be a plurality (e.g., four) projections 152 that are spacedevenly about the outer radial edge of the central support member 146.

The base unit 110 may further include a fan 154. The fan 154 may be a DCor an AC fan that is supported for rotation within the housing 122. Thefan 154 may be mounted beneath the lower support 144 of the housing 122.In some embodiments, the fan 154 may be substantially covered by (andprotected by) the central support member 146 of the housing 122. The fan154 may be supported for rotation about the axis 106 in some embodimentsand may draw air into the base unit 110 via the apertures 132 and blowair out of the air outlet 150, generally along the axis 106. The fan 154may be spaced vertically upward along the axis 106 from the bottommember 130 and the apertures 132 therein to draw air into the base unit110. The fan 154 may be provided compactly within the base unit 110. Insome embodiments, there may be between two and two hundred millimeters(2-200 mm) of axial space between the bottom member 130 and the bottomof the fan 154.

It will be appreciated that the system 100 may configured differentlyfor moving air through the capsule 112. For example, instead of or inaddition to the fan 154 the system 100 may incorporate an air pump,moveable bellows, air multipliers, or other features. Additionally, thefan 154 may be positioned differently from the illustrated embodimentswithout departing from the scope of the present disclosure. Morespecifically, instead of underneath the capsule 112, the fan 154 may bedisposed to the side of the capsule 112 or on top of the capsule 112without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. Moreover, asrepresented by the illustrated embodiment, the fan 154 may be configuredfor positive displacement relative to the capsule 112 such that the fan154 drives (blows) the airflow 116 into the capsule 112. However, itwill be appreciated that the fan 154 of the system 100 may be configuredfor negative displacement relative to the capsule 112 such that the fan154 drives (sucks) air through the capsule 112. Moreover, instead of orin addition to the fan 154, the system 100 may include other featuresfor moving volatiles out of the capsule 112, such as a heating element,etc. Furthermore, the system 100 may be configured for deliveringvolatiles passively and without relying on a power source to inputpower.

As will be discussed in detail below, certain features of the system 100increase the operational efficiency of the fan 154 such that the airflow116 may be effectively utilized for distributing the volatile substancewithin the capsule 112. Accordingly, the fan 154 may be compact and mayhave relatively low power requirements. This also enables the fan 154 tobe battery powered. One or more such batteries can be housed within thehousing 122 of the base unit 110. These batteries may be of any type,such as lithium-ion rechargeable batteries, etc. the batteries may beconfigured for wired and/or wireless charging. In some embodiments,there may be two to four batteries housed near the bottom member 130 orin another part of the base unit 110. The weight of the batteries andtheir position may provide stability to the system 100 and preventtipping. Other power sources fall within the scope of the presentdisclosure as well. For example, the system 100 may include a powercord, which may connect to a wall outlet, a USB port, etc. The system100 may incorporate a mechanical power supply, such as a spring that canbe manually wound up and released for delivering mechanical power (e.g.,to the fan 154) as the spring unwinds. The system 100 may incorporate asolar power system in some embodiments as well.

In some embodiments, the base unit 110 may include a controller 158,which may be housed within the housing 122. The controller 158 may be ofa variety of types and may have a wide range of capabilities withoutdeparting from the scope of the present disclosure. In some embodiments,the controller 158 may include a processor, a memory device, sensor(s),and/or other components of a known computerized control system.Furthermore, the controller 158 may rely on programmed logic and sensorinput for controlling one or more features of the system 100. Forexample, the controller 158 may be operably connected to the fan 154 forturning the fan 154 ON and OFF. In some embodiments, the controller 158may turn the fan 154 ON and OFF intermittently according to apredetermined and preprogrammed schedule. In some embodiments, thecontroller 158 may cycle the fan 154 ON for short durations (e.g., a fewminutes) and then OFF for an interval of between four and five hours. Inadditional embodiments, the controller 158 may selectively change thespeed of the fan 154 between two or more predetermined speed settings aswill be discussed. It will be appreciated that the controller 158 mayalso include a timer for measuring time (e.g., the amount of time thefan 154 is ON, the amount of time the fan 154 is OFF, and/or the amountof time that the fan 154 is set at a certain speed).

Referring now to FIGS. 1 and 3-8, the capsule 112 will be discussed indetail according to example embodiments. It will be appreciated that, inthe cross-sectional views of FIGS. 4, 6, and 7, the area to the left ofthe axis 106 is taken along a plane defined by axis 106 and radial axis109 whereas the area to the right of the axis 106 is taken along a planedefined by axis 106 and radial axis 108.

The capsule 112 may include a housing 162, which houses the volatilesubstance member 114. In some embodiments, the capsule 112 may alsoinclude one or more seal members, which regulate airflow through thecapsule 112. For example, as shown in the illustrated embodiments, thecapsule 112 may include a first seal member 210 and a second seal member220.

The housing 162 may be hollow and cup-shaped. In some embodiments, thehousing 162 may be substantially cylindrical and may have a generallycircular cross section taken normal to the axis 106. The housing 162 maybe centered on the axis 106 and may extend along the axis 106 between afirst end 161 (i.e., a bottom or inlet end) and a second end 163 (i.e.,a top or outlet end). The first end 161 may be disposed proximate thelower end 104 and the second end 163 may be disposed proximate the upperend 102 when mounted on the base unit 110.

As shown in FIG. 5, the housing 162 may generally include a cup member164 and a retainer member 192. The cup member 164 and retainer member192 may cooperate to retain and house the volatile substance member 114as well as the one or more seal members 210, 220.

The cup member 164 may be a unitary member made of a polymeric material.The cup member 164 may be somewhat flexible but may be rigid enough tosupport itself and contents therein. The cup member 164 may include anouter wall 166 that extends circumferentially about the longitudinalaxis 106. The outer wall 166 may be centered on the axis 106. The outerwall 166 may also extend along the longitudinal axis 106 in a firstdirection (downward) toward the first end 161 and may terminate at afirst terminal end 168 of the capsule 112. The outer wall 166 may alsoinclude an upper rim 188, which is spaced apart longitudinally from thefirst terminal end 168 of the capsule 112. The outer wall 166 may have acircular cross section taken normal to the axis 106. In otherembodiments, the outer wall 166 may have a different shape, such as asquare or other polygonal shape. The outer wall 166 may be frusto-conicand tapered slightly with respect to the axis 106. As such, the outerwall 166 proximate the first end 161 may be narrower than the outer wall166 proximate the second end 163. As shown in FIG. 7, the outer wall 166may have a taper angle 107. Specifically, the outer wall 166 may extendsubstantially vertically and along the axis 106, but at the taper angle107 with respect to the axis 106. The taper angle 107 may vary along thelongitudinal height of the outer wall 166 (i.e., between the first end161 and the second end 163). In some embodiments, the taper angle 107may be, at most fifteen degrees (15°) with respect to the axis 106.

As shown in FIGS. 4, 6, and 7, the cup member 164 may further include aninner wall 170. The inner wall 170 may extend generally away from thefirst terminal end 168 in a second direction (upward) along thelongitudinal axis and may terminate at a first seal surface 172. Theinner wall 170 may extend at an angle and/or contour slightly inwardtoward the axis 106 as the inner wall 170 extends away from the firstterminal end 168. The inner wall 170 may be arcuate (e.g., annular) andmay extend circumferentially about the axis 106. Thus, the inner wall170 may be circular and may continuously encircle the axis 106 in someembodiments.

The inner wall 170 may include an inlet surface 174 that faces the axis106 and that extends about the axis 106 in the circumferentialdirection. The inlet surface 174 may have a predefined shape or profilefor directing the airflow 116 into and through the capsule 112. Oneexample cross-sectional profile (taken along the axis 106) is shown inFIG. 7. As shown, the inlet surface 174 may have a tapered and/orcontoured profile. This tapered and contoured profile may be defined inthe longitudinal direction between the terminal end 168 and the firstseal surface 172.

The inlet surface 174 and the first seal surface 172 may cooperate todefine a first port, such as an inlet port 176, of the housing 162. Theinlet surface 174 and, thus, the inlet port 176 may have a circularcross section taken normal to the axis 106.

In some embodiments, the inlet surface 174 may be tapered inwardradially with respect to the axis 106. More specifically, the inlet port176 may have a width 175 (FIG. 6) that is measured normal to the axis106 between opposite sides of the port 176, and the width 175 of theinlet surface 174 may gradually reduce moving away from the terminal end168 along the axis 106 toward the second end 163. The width 175 maygradually reduce along a majority of the longitudinal length of theinlet surface 174 from the terminal end 168 to the first seal surface172. In some embodiments, the profile of the inlet surface 174 may beconvexly curved with respect to the longitudinal axis 106 as shown inFIGS. 6 and 7. The inlet surface 174 may be three-dimensionallycontoured (contoured longitudinally and circumferentially with respectto the axis 106). In some embodiments, at least part of the inletsurface 174 may be contoured similar to an inner diameter surface of abell. Accordingly, the inlet port 176 may direct the airflow 116 inwardradially with respect to the longitudinal axis 106 and toward thevolatile substance member 114.

The cup member 164 may further include a lower support 178 proximate theseal surface 172. The lower support 178 may include a disc-shapedcentral support member 180 and a plurality of elongate support members182, which extend between and attach the central support member 180 tothe inner wall 170. The elongate support members 182 may radiate fromthe central support member 180 and may be spaced equally about thelongitudinal axis 106. As shown in FIG. 8, there may be six elongatesupport members 182. Also, as shown, the elongate support members 182may include contoured or otherwise shaped underside surfaces 183. Theunderside surfaces 183 may face out of the port 176 and may be taperedand/or wedge shaped so as to gradually increase in width moving alongthe axis 106 toward the terminal end 168. Also, the elongate supportmembers 182 may extend normal to the longitudinal axis 106 and acrossthe inlet port 176 so as to subdivide the inlet port 176 into aplurality of inlet openings 185. As shown in FIGS. 5 and 8, the inletopenings 185 may be triangular or wedge-shaped, may have equal sizes,and may radiate radially and circumferentially about the axis 106. Itwill be appreciated that the lower support 178 is an optional featureand that it may be configured differently and/or omitted withoutdeparting from the scope of the present disclosure.

The upper part of the inner wall 170 and the outer wall 166 may bespaced apart radially as shown in FIGS. 6-8. As such, an internalreceptacle 184 may be defined between the inner wall 170 and the outerwall 166. This internal receptacle 184 may be useful for collectingcondensation, debris, or other material within the capsule 112 before itfalls or drips out of the capsule 112. However, it will be appreciatedthat the receptacle 184 is an optional feature of the capsule 112.

The cup member 164 may further include one or more inner staging flanges186 (FIG. 5). The inner staging flanges 186 may project inward radiallyfrom the outer wall 166 and may extend along the longitudinal axis 106.There may be a plurality of inner staging flanges 186 arrangedcircumferentially about the axis 106. The inner staging flanges 186 maycooperatively support the volatile substance member 114 as will bediscussed.

The outer wall 166 of the housing 162 may also include the upper rim 188proximate the second end 163. A retainer ring 190 may be affixed to theupper rim 188 of the housing 162. The retainer ring 190 may encircle theupper rim 188. As shown in FIG. 6, the retainer ring 190 may projectoutward radially and upward longitudinally from the outer wall 166.

Referring now to FIG. 5, the retainer member 192 will be discussed. Theretainer member 192 may be a unitary member. The retainer member 192 maybe made of a polymeric material. The retainer member 192 may be anannular structure. The retainer member 192 may be removably attached tothe retainer ring 190 of the cup member 164. As shown in FIG. 6, theretainer member 192 may clip over and receive the retainer ring 190. Theretainer member 192 may be interference fit, friction fit, adhesivelyattached, or otherwise fixedly attached to the cup member 164.Furthermore, the retainer member 192 may include an inner rim 193 thatis disposed inward radially with respect to the retainer ring 190. Theinner rim 193 may depend from outer areas of the retainer member 192.The inner rim 193 may include a plurality of apertures 194. In someembodiments, the inner rim 193 may be scallop-shaped notches, grooves,cut-outs, etc. It will be appreciated that the apertures 194 may bethrough-holes that extend through the inner rim 193 in some embodiments.

The retainer member 192, the retainer ring 190, and the upper rim 188 ofthe housing 162 may cooperate to define a second port, such as an outletport 196, of the capsule 112. Generally, the outlet port 196 may be anannular opening or space between the retainer member 192, the retainerring 190, and the upper rim 188. The outlet port 196 may besubstantially centered on and may extend circumferentially about theaxis 106. A first seal surface 198 is defined on the upper rim 188 ofthe housing 162 and partly defines the outlet port 196. Areas of theretainer member 192 between the scallop-shaped apertures 194 definesecond seal surfaces 199 as shown in FIGS. 5 and 6 and define otherportions of the outlet port 196. Flow through the outlet port 196 willbe discussed in greater detail below. It will be appreciated that theapertures 194 may be positioned differently on the capsule 112 withoutdeparting from the scope of the present disclosure. For example, theapertures 194 may extend through the outer wall 166 of the capsule 112in some embodiments.

The volatile substance member 114 is shown in FIGS. 4, 5, and 6according to example embodiments. The volatile substance member 114 insome embodiments may include a substrate 200 with a volatile substanceabsorbed thereon. For example, the substrate 200 may be made from asheet of material (e.g., cotton, paper, plant-based material, non-wovenmaterial, porous or spiralized plastic, polymeric material, corrugatedsheet, sponge material, etc.) with fragrance oil thereon. Accordingly,the volatile substance member 114 may be substantially dry andmoisture-free inside the capsule 112 during normal consumer use to avoidany spillage or leakage of fragrance oil. In other embodiments, thevolatile substance member 114 and/or the substrate 200 may comprisebeads, particles, etc. that are scented with a fragrance oil. In furtherembodiments, the volatile substance member 114 may include a containerfor a fragrant gel, fragrance oil, a wick, or other features withoutdeparting from the scope of the present disclosure.

As shown in FIG. 5, the substrate 200 may be formed to define a firstside 204 and a second side 206 and one or more through-ways 202 that aredefined through the volatile substance member 114 along the axis 106from the first side 204 to the second side 206. The first side 204 mayface the lower end 104, and the second side 206 may face the upper end102. At least part of the substrate 200 may extend about the axis 106and/or at least part of the substrate 200 may extend transverse to(e.g., radially across) the axis 106. In other embodiments (e.g., FIG.10), the volatile substance member 114 may be star-shaped with anynumber of points. The volatile substance member 114 may also beheart-shaped, rectangular, triangular, or shaped otherwise. As shown inFIG. 5, the first side 204 and the second side 206 may be open forreceiving the airflow 116 via the through-ways 202. There may be arelatively high amount of exposed surface area for passing the volatilesubstance to the airflow 116. The volatile substance member 114 may beenclosed and housed within housing 162 of the capsule 112. Specifically,as shown in FIG. 6, the first side 204 of the volatile substance member114 may be supported atop the plurality of inner staging flanges 186. Inadditional embodiments, there may be a permeable lower support (e.g., amesh screen) that extends horizontally across the capsule 112, that issupported on the flanges 186, and that supports the first side 204 ofthe volatile substance member 114. The second side 206 may be disposedslightly below the upper rim 188 of housing 162 in the position of FIG.6.

Referring now to FIGS. 4-6, the first seal member 210 will be discussedaccording to example embodiments. The first seal member 210 may comprisea so-called umbrella seal in some embodiments; however, the first sealmember 210 may be a check valve or another type. As shown, the firstseal member 210 may be disc-shaped with a central portion 214 that iscentered on the axis 106 and a thinner outer portion 212 that radiatesfrom the central portion 214. The first seal member 210 may also includean underside 213 and a top side 215. The first seal member 210 may besupported by and attached to the housing 162. For example, the centralportion 214 may be fixedly received in the central support member 180 ofthe lower support 178. The first seal member 210 may be made fromflexible and resilient polymeric material in some embodiments. Thus, thefirst seal member 210 may be resiliently flexible between a first,sealed position (FIG. 6) and a second, unsealed position (FIG. 4). Inthe sealed position, the underside 213 may seal against the first sealsurface 172 to define an annular, substantially hermetic sealtherebetween. Alternatively, the underside 213 of the seal member 210may be resiliently flexed upward and spaced apart at a distance awayfrom the first seal surface 172 when the seal member 210 is in theunsealed position. The first seal member 210 may be biased toward sealedposition. The first seal member 210 may, therefore, selectively seal theport 176 of the capsule 112 and may selectively close and open the fluidinlet of the capsule 112 as will be discussed in greater detail below,and the first seal member 210 may be referred to as an inlet seal.

With continuing reference to FIGS. 4-6, the second seal member 220 willbe discussed according to example embodiments. The second seal member220 may be disc-shaped. The second seal member 220 may be circular insome embodiments. The second seal member 220 may be made from apolymeric material, such as a flat sheet of polypropylene having a smallthickness (e.g., approximately 0.015-inch thickness). However, thesecond seal member 220 may be an umbrella seal, a check valve, or othertype in additional embodiments. The second seal member 220 may includean underside 222 and a top side 224. The second seal member 220 may besupported for floating movement by the housing 162 of the capsule 112.The second seal member 220 may be supported for movement between afirst, sealed position (FIG. 6) and a second, unsealed position (FIG.4). The underside 222 may seal against the first seal surface 198 whenthe second seal member 220 is in the sealed position. Alternatively, thetop side 224 may be supported against the second seal surface 199 whenthe second seal member 220 is in the unsealed position. Accordingly, thefirst seal surface 198 may limit movement of the second seal member 220along the longitudinal axis 106 in one direction, and the second sealsurface 199 may limit movement of the second seal member 220 along thelongitudinal axis 106 in the opposite direction. The second seal member220 may be retained radially by the retainer member 192.

The second seal member 220 may be biased toward the sealed position. Thesecond seal member 210 may, therefore, selectively seal the port 196 ofthe capsule 112 and may selectively close and open the fluid outlet ofthe capsule 112 as will be discussed in greater detail below, and thesecond seal member 220 may be referred to as an outlet seal.

When the capsule 112 is separated and removed from the base unit 110(FIG. 6) the first seal member 210 may be biased toward its sealedposition to seal the inlet port 176, and the second seal member 220 maybe biased toward its sealed position to seal the outlet port 196.Accordingly, the volatile substance member 114 may be substantiallyencapsulated and sealed within the capsule 112.

The capsule 112 may be placed on and may be engaged with the base unit110 (FIG. 4). Specifically, the capsule 112 may be manually oriented androtated about the axis 106 so as to align the openings 185 with theprojections 152. Then, the capsule 112 may be directed along the axis106 and into the receptacle 136. As shown in FIG. 4, the taper dimensionof the outer wall 166 of the capsule 112 may substantially correspond tothe taper dimension of the side member 124 of the base unit 110 suchthat the outer wall 166 lies against and snugly nests on the side member124 of the base unit 110. Also, the size and shape of the circularterminal end 168 of the capsule 112 may correspond to that of the outerledge 145 of the base unit 110 such that the terminal end 168 snuglyfits and nests on the outer ledge 145 of the base unit 110. Accordingly,the capsule 112 and the receptacle 136 may correspond in shape and size.Both the receptacle 136 and the housing 162 of the capsule 112 may becup-shaped with rounded (e.g., circular) cross sections taken normal tothe axis 106. Both the receptacle 136 and the capsule 112 may be alignedand centered on the axis 106 with corresponding widths (i.e., diameters)and tapered surfaces. As such, the capsule 112 may nest within thereceptacle 136 and may be secured therein.

Furthermore, as shown in FIG. 4, an airflow fluid coupling 149 may beestablished between the capsule 112 and the base unit 110 as a result ofthe capsule 112 engaging with the base unit 110. Specifically, the airoutlet 150 of the base unit 110 may fluidly connect to the inlet port176 of the capsule 112 when the capsule 112 is supported within thereceptacle 136. Placement of the capsule 112 on the base unit 110 maycoincidentally fluidly connect and align the inlet port 176 to the airoutlet 150. In some embodiments, the inlet port 176 covers over anentirety of the air outlet 150 of the base unit 110. Stated differently,the inlet port 176 surrounds of the base unit 110 with respect to theaxis 106 (e.g., the inlet port 176 encircles the air outlet 150). Also,the terminal end 168 seats against the outer ledge 145 to block leakageflow between the outside of the capsule 112 and the base unit 110. Inthis position, the receptacle 136, the air outlet 150, the first end 161of the capsule 112, the inlet port 176, the second end 163, and theoutlet port 196 may be centered with respect to the longitudinal axis106. Also, in this position, the air outlet 150, and the inlet port 176may be substantially aligned along the longitudinal axis 106.

As the capsule 112 is seated on the base unit 110, the projections 152may be received within the inlet openings 185 as shown in FIG. 4. Ifthere is misalignment of the projections 152 and the inlet openings 185,then the tapered underside surfaces 183 of the elongate support members182 may contact the projections 152. The tapering of the surfaces 183may cause the capsule 112 to rotate about the axis 106 relative to thebase unit 110 and provide alignment. As the projections 152 arereceived, the projections 152 may push and flex the first seal member210 away from the sealed position and support the first seal member 210in the unsealed position. Accordingly, placement of the capsule 112 inthe base unit 110 may coincidentally unseal the inlet port 176. In someembodiments, the capsule 112 may be configured for drop-in placementwithin the receptacle 136 of the base unit 110, such that the force ofgravity is sufficient to seat and retain the capsule 112 on the baseunit 110 with the first seal member 210 unsealed. In other embodiments,slight manual force is necessary to push the capsule 112 on the baseunit 110. In further embodiments, the capsule 112 and/or base unit 110may include retainer features (e.g., retainer clips, straps, threading,snap-lock retainers, etc.) that hold the capsule 112 to the base unit110. In the illustrated embodiments, the capsule 112 may be manuallylifted and removed from the base unit 110 easily (without having tofacture or permanently deform the base unit 110 or the capsule 112).

With the capsule 112 seated and nested in the receptacle 136 and the fan154 in the OFF state, the first seal member 210 may be supported in theunsealed position, whereas the second seal member 220 may be supportedin the sealed position.

Then, the fan 154 may be turned ON by the controller 158 either manuallywith the switch 126 or automatically by the controller 158 according toprogrammed logic. The fan 154 may draw air into the inlet apertures 132and blow the air out of air outlet 150. The airflow 116 may be receivedand directed by the inlet surface 174 of inlet port 176 and into thehousing 162 of the capsule 112. The inlet surface 174 may direct theairflow 116 at the outward radial boundary in an inward radial directionas the airflow 116 moves into the capsule 112. The tapered undersidesurfaces 183 of the elongate support members 182 may also direct andfocus the airflow 116 in a predetermined direction (e.g.,circumferentially with respect to the axis 106). In some embodiments,the underside surfaces 183 operate similar to stators of a gas turbineengine, directing the airflow to increase efficiency of the system 100.The airflow 116 may be directed toward the underside of the first sealmember 210. The underside may direct the airflow 116 outward radially asit moves downstream, and the airflow 116 may be directed into thethrough-ways 202 of the volatile substance member 114. The airflow may,therefore, pass through the member 114 and into a so-called headspace269 of the capsule 112 defined proximate the underside 222 of the secondseal member 220. In many instances, this headspace 269 may be configuredto collect airborne volatiles from the volatile substance member 114.

Initially, upon startup of the fan 154, air pressure within the capsule112 builds to push and move (float) the second seal member 220 away fromthe sealed position (FIG. 6) toward the unsealed position (FIG. 4),thereby opening the outlet port 196. Accordingly, the airflow 116 at theunderside 222 of the second seal member 220 may turn outward radiallyand turn around the outer edge of the second seal member 220 to exit thecapsule 112 via the scallop-shaped apertures 194. Pressure from theairflow 116 may be sufficient to retain the second seal member 220 inthe unsealed position as long as the fan 154 remains ON, therebyallowing the airflow 116 to continuously pass through the capsule 112.

Static pressure may be provided from the airflow 116 generated by thefan 154 to maintain the continuous flow path through the open inlet port176 and the open outlet port 196. Since the first seal member 210 ismechanically opened and supported by the projections 152, the airpressure is needed instead for opening and supporting the second sealmember 220. Thus, it will be appreciated that the fan 154 may beconfigured for operating and moving the second seal member 220. The fan154 may be relatively light-duty and have low power consumption withoutcompromising performance of the system 100.

It will be appreciated that the contoured and tapered surfaces of theinlet port 176 and the elongate support members 182 may direct theairflow 116 to help generate a desired and predetermined airflow 116characteristic. In some embodiments, there may be a concentration ofvolatiles within known areas of the capsule 112 (e.g., in the headspace269, especially radially near the axis 106), and the shaped inlet port176 may direct the airflow 116 toward these areas (e.g., radially towardthe axis 106. These features may also ensure that the airflow 116applies sufficient pressure for moving the second seal member 220 fromthe sealed position (FIG. 6) toward the unsealed position (FIG. 4).These features may also increase exposure of the volatile substancemember 114 to the airflow 116 for increasing the amount of volatilematerial dispersed.

When the fan 154 turns back OFF, the reduced air pressure within thecapsule 112 may allow the second seal member 220 to biasingly return tothe sealed position (FIG. 6). Accordingly, the second seal member 220may be passively opened (due to pressure from the airflow 116) as wellas passively closed (due to gravity, due to elasticity of the member220, due to a spring or other biasing member, etc.). It will beappreciated that, even with the fan returning to the OFF state, theprojections 152 of the base unit 110 may support the first seal member210 in the unsealed position; however, since the inlet port 176 iscovered by the base unit 110, the capsule 112 may remain substantiallyclosed off

In some embodiments, the controller 158 may cause the fan 154 to turn ONand OFF cyclically at predetermined intervals. Cycling the state of thefan 154 in combination with an automatically re-sealing capsule 112 mayprovide a number of benefits. For example, in the case of perfumes, thiscan reduce olfactory adaptation or “nose fatigue” of the user of thesystem 100. This is the phenomenon where a user is able to smell afragrance when first exposed, but as the length of exposure increases,the consumer is no longer able to smell the fragrance. By turning offthe fan 154 (and coincidentally re-sealing the capsule 112 periodically,sensory adaptation or nose fatigue is diminished.

Cycling the fan 154 ON and OFF also allows optimization of the fan'spower consumption. In some embodiments, the controller 158 maycyclically operate the fan 154 such that its power consumption satisfiesa predetermined Range Ratio (RR). The Range Ratio (RR) may varyaccording to the power cycle ratio of the fan 154 (the time ON versusthe time OFF), a fan efficiency factor, and a cup loss factor. This isexpressed below in equation (1):

Range Ratio(R)=power cycle ratio*fan efficiency factor*cup lossfactor  (1)

This is expressed in more detail below in equation (2):

$\begin{matrix}{{{Range}\mspace{14mu} {Ratio}\mspace{11mu} (R)} = {\lbrack \frac{{{time}\mspace{14mu} {on}},s}{{{time}\mspace{14mu} {off}},s} \rbrack*{\quad{\lbrack \frac{{{air}\mspace{14mu} {moved}\mspace{14mu} {by}\mspace{14mu} {fan}},{m^{3}\text{/}s}}{{{power}\mspace{14mu} {consumed}},W} \rbrack*\lbrack \frac{{{air}\mspace{14mu} {out}\mspace{14mu} {of}\mspace{14mu} {cup}},{m^{3}\text{/}s}}{{{air}\mspace{14mu} {into}\mspace{14mu} {of}\mspace{14mu} {cup}},{m^{3}\text{/}s}} \rbrack}}}} & (2)\end{matrix}$

In some embodiments, the controller 158 may operate the fan 154 tosatisfy a Range Ratio of between 1:2 to 1:14.

Moreover, the controller 158 may operate the fan 154 within a range (R1)according to equation (3):

$\begin{matrix}{{{Range}\mspace{14mu} ( {R1} )} = {\quad\frac{\lbrack {{{time}\mspace{14mu} {off}*{ambient}\mspace{14mu} {air}\mspace{14mu} {flow}*{cup}\mspace{14mu} {geometry}\mspace{14mu} {ratio}},{off}} \rbrack}{\begin{bmatrix}{{time}\mspace{14mu} {on}*( {{{ambient}\mspace{14mu} {air}\mspace{14mu} {flow}} + {{fan}\mspace{14mu} {driven}\mspace{11mu} {flow}}} )*} \\{{{cup}\mspace{14mu} {geometry}\mspace{14mu} {ratio}},{on}}\end{bmatrix}}}} & (3)\end{matrix}$

wherein the cup geometry ratio is the area of the outlet port 196divided by the area of the inlet port 176, wherein the cup geometryratio approaches zero (0) when the capsule 112 is sealed, and whereinthe cup geometry ratio approaches one (1) when the capsule 112 isunsealed.

Cyclically operating the fan 154 and re-sealing the capsule 112 betweenuses also allows for airborne volatiles within the headspace 269 to cometo equilibrium, for example, when the volatile substance member 114includes a perfume. The headspace 269 may be fully saturated with theperfume. Fragrances are made of many chemistries with differentvolatilities, commonly referred to as top, middle, and bottom notes.When the capsule 112 is sealed off while the fan 154 is OFF, thesaturated air inside the capsule 112 is able to develop the fullfragrance, including those top, middle, and bottom notes. When the fan154 turns ON and the capsule 112 unseals, this fully saturated headspace269 may be released, delivering the full perfume profile.

In additional embodiments, the controller 158 may operate the fan 154 attwo or more different speeds and may selectively change the speed of thefan 154. For example, the controller 158 may turn the fan 154 ON andinitially operate the fan 154 at a first (higher) speed for apredetermined time (e.g., two minutes) and then automatically lower thespeed of the fan 154 to a second speed for a predetermined time beforeturning the fan 154 OFF.

When the user decides, the capsule 112 may be lifted and manuallyremoved from base unit 110. Once the projections 152 are outside thecapsule 112, the first seal member 210 may resiliently recover and biasback toward the sealed position (FIG. 6). Accordingly, both the firstand second seal members 210, 220 may be sealed, and in some embodiments,the volatile substance member 114 may be encapsulated for future use.Assuming there are multiple capsules 112 in the system, each withvolatile substance members 114 of different scents, for example, thesefeatures allow the user to pick and choose which capsules 112 will beused at different times.

Referring now to FIGS. 9-11, the capsule 1112 will be discussedaccording to additional embodiments of the present disclosure. Thecapsule 1112 may be used with the base unit 110 discussed above. Thecapsule 1112 may share several features with the capsule 112 of FIGS.1-8; however, there may difference as discussed below. Components thatcorrespond to those of FIGS. 1-8 are indicated with correspondingreference numbers increased by 1000.

As shown, the capsule 1112 may shaped similar and may extend along thelongitudinal axis 1106. The housing 1162 may include a cup member 1164and a retainer member 1192 as above. The capsule 1112 may also includethe volatile substance member 1114. As illustrated, the volatilesubstance member 1114 may be star-shaped, wherein through-ways aredefined longitudinally through the member 1114 in a central region andbetween the arms of the star-shaped member 1114. As mentioned above, thevolatile substance member 1114 may include a wide range of shapeswithout departing from the scope of the present disclosure. Furthermore,the capsule 1112 may include the first seal member 1210 and the secondseal member 1220.

As shown, the upper rim 1188 of the outer wall 1166 may projectoutwardly radially and may include a lip 1310. The lip 1310 may bedirected inward radially.

Additionally, the retainer member 1192 may include an outer flange 1312.An annular lower retainer member 1314 may project longitudinally fromthe underside of the outer flange 1312. An undercut 1316 may be definedin the lower retainer member 1314 and may receive the lip 1310 of theupper rim 1188 to retain the retainer member 1192 on the cup member1164. Furthermore, the retainer member 1192 may include one or moreupper retainer members 1318 that project from the top side of outerflange 1312. The upper retainer members 1318 may have a hook-shapedprofile along the axis 106. The upper retainer members 1318 may beconfigured for limiting movement of the second seal member 1220 awayfrom the sealed position and retaining the second seal member 1220 inthe unsealed position. Also, in some embodiments, the retainer member1192 may include a seal support structure 1320. The seal supportstructure 1320 is an optional feature of the capsule 1112. In someembodiments, the seal support structure 1320 may include a centralsupport member 1322 and a plurality of elongate support members 1324.The seal support structure 1320 may support the central portion of thesecond seal member 1220 when in the sealed position. Other embodimentsfall within the scope of the present disclosure. For example, the secondseal member 1220 may be fixedly attached to the central support member1322 and outer radial portions may resiliently flex between the sealedand unsealed positions.

Operation of the system with the capsule 1112 may be substantially thesame as discussed with respect to the capsule 112 of FIG. 4.Accordingly, airflow may be driven by the base unit 110 and may bedirected through the capsule 1112 for delivering the volatile substance.

Various manufacturing methods may be employed for forming the capsule112, 1112 and the base unit 110. Some structures, such as the housingand pieces thereof may be formed from injection molding processes, fromadditive manufacturing processes, or otherwise. The first and/or secondseal members 210, 220 may be die cut, injection molded, stamped,pressed, or made using other typical manufacturing techniques. The sealmembers 210, 220 may be made from plastic, film, foil, or a combinationof materials. Parts may be assembled using conventional fasteners,adhesives, or otherwise. With regard to the base unit 110, the fan 154,the controller 158, and/or other components may be mounted on a supportstructure and then housed within the housing 122. The capsule 112 may beformed by inserting the first seal member 210, the volatile substancemember 114, and the second seal member 220 in the cup member 164 andthen press-fitting the retainer member 192 onto the cup member 164. Inother embodiments, the second seal member 220 and the retainer member192 may be assembled together as a unit, which is then attached to thecup member 164. In another embodiment, the retainer member 192 may bepressed onto the cup member 164, and then the second seal member 220 maybe pressed into the retainer member 192.

The system 100 may vary in a number of ways without departing from thescope of the present disclosure. For example, the capsule 112, 1112 maybe configured differently and may be disc-shaped instead of cup-shaped,etc. The volatile substance member 114 may, in some embodiments, beconfigured as the outlet cover of the capsule 112, 1112 in someembodiments instead of including the second seal member 220. Also, thefirst and second seal members 210, 220 are optional features and one orboth may be omitted in some embodiments. It will be appreciated that thecapsule 112, 1112 may include any number of seal members. Other sealmembers fall within the scope of the present disclosure. For example,the capsule 112, 1112 may include one or more removable and disposableseals. There may be a peel-away seal made from paper, plastic film,foil, or a combination. In some embodiments, a peel-away seal may beadhesively attached to the terminal end 168 of the housing of thecapsule 112, 1112. Also, in some embodiments, the projections 152 maypuncture a seal member or other covering of the capsule 112, 1112 toopen the inlet port thereof. The base unit 110 may also include elementsin addition to or instead of the projections 152 for cutting, tearing,or otherwise opening a seal member over the inlet port of the capsule112, 1112. The outlet port may similarly incorporate a peel-away,tearable, or other type of disposable seal, and the base unit 110 mayinclude any suitable device for tearing, puncturing, or otherwiseopening the outlet seal. The capsule 112 may also include one or moreremovable caps or other coverings that cover over the inlet or outletport. Such coverings may be hingeably attached to the housing 162 orthreadably attached to the housing 162. Furthermore, in someembodiments, the covering may be a pop-top that is manually replaceableby a user for opening and closing the capsule 112, 1112.

In an additional example, the capsule 112 may be substantially the sameexcept that the first seal member 210 is omitted. The second seal member220 may be included for sealing the port at the upper end 102 (here, theoutlet port 196). The inlet port 176 may remain open; however, the baseunit 110 may prevent back flow from the capsule 112 and, if the capsule112 is removed therefrom, then the user may simply place the capsule 112on a flat surface to substantially close of the inlet port 176. Thecapsule 112 may also be re-sealed within secondary packaging (a bag, aclamshell container, etc.) between uses. Furthermore, in addition to orinstead of the umbrella-like first seal member 210 illustrated, othertypes of valve members may be incorporated, such as butterfly valves,slide valves, twist valves, flip valves, snowflake valves, etc.Moreover, a mesh or other porous material may be incorporated within thecapsule 112 instead of the first and second seal members 210, 220.

Accordingly, the system 100 is useful, compact, and ergonomic. Thecapsule 112, 1112 is easy and intuitive to engage with the base unit110. When attached the air outlet 150 aligns with the inlet port 176,and the airflow 116 is utilized efficiently. Substantially all air flowentering the base unit 110 is blown through the capsule 112. In otherwords, a single, continuous flow path is defined through the base unit110 and the capsule 112 from the apertures 132 of the base unit 110 tothe outlet port 196 of the capsule 112. As such, a less expensive fan154 may be incorporated without compromising performance. The inlet port176 includes rounded, tapered, and/or otherwise shaped surfaces todirect the airflow 116 in a controlled and effective manner.Furthermore, the configuration of the mechanically-opened first sealmember 210 encapsulates the volatile substance member 114 and, yet, issimple to unseal. Likewise, the passively-opened second seal member 220seals the capsule 112, allows the headspace 269 to collect the volatilematerial, and provides other benefits.

Terms such as “first” and “second” have been utilized above to describesimilar features or characteristics (e.g., longitudinal directions) inview of the order of introduction during the course of description. Inother sections of this Application, such terms can be varied, asappropriate, to reflect a different order of introduction. While atleast one exemplary embodiment has been presented in the foregoingDetailed Description, it should be appreciated that a vast number ofvariations exist. It should also be appreciated that the exemplaryembodiment or exemplary embodiments are only examples, and are notintended to limit the scope, applicability, or configuration of thepresent disclosure in any way. Rather, the foregoing DetailedDescription will provide those skilled in the art with a convenient roadmap for implementing an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.It is understood that various changes may be made in the function andarrangement of elements described in an exemplary embodiment withoutdeparting from the scope of the present disclosure as set forth in theappended claims.

What is claimed is:
 1. A capsule for a volatile material distributionsystem, the capsule configured for use with a base unit having a fan andan air opening for an airflow of air driven by the fan, the capsulecomprising: a housing with a port, the port at least partly defined by aseal surface, the housing configured to move between an engaged positionand a disengaged position relative to the base unit, the housing, in theengaged position, being removably supported on the base unit with theport fluidly connected to the air opening of the base unit, the housing,in the disengaged position, being spaced apart from the base unit; avolatile substance member that includes a volatile substance, thevolatile substance member contained within the housing; and a sealmember that is supported by the housing for movement between a sealedposition and an unsealed position, at least part of the seal membersealing against the seal surface to close the port when in the sealedposition, the at least part of the seal member spaced at a distance fromthe seal surface to open the port when in the unsealed position; theseal member, when the capsule is disengaged from the base unit, being inthe sealed position; and the projection of the base unit, when thecapsule is engaged with the base unit, being received in the capsule tosupport the seal member in the unsealed position such that air moved bythe fan flows through the port.
 2. The capsule of claim 1, wherein theseal member is biased toward the sealed position.
 3. The capsule ofclaim 1, wherein the seal member is an umbrella seal.
 4. The capsule ofclaim 1, wherein the seal surface is annular; and wherein the sealmember includes an underside that seals against the seal surface todefine an annular seal when the seal member is in the sealed position.5. The capsule of claim 1, wherein the housing includes a seal supportmember that is attached to the seal member; and wherein the housingincludes an elongate member that extends across the port to attach tothe seal support member, the elongate member including a taperedunderside surface that faces out of the port and that is configured toabut the projection and rotate the capsule for receiving the projection.6. The capsule of claim 1, wherein the port is a first port and the sealmember is a first seal member; wherein the housing defines a secondport, the housing configured to accept the airflow through the housingbetween the first port and the second port; and further comprising asecond seal member that is supported by the housing for movement betweena sealed position and an unsealed position, the second seal member, inthe sealed position, closing the second port, and the second port beingopen when the second seal member is in the unsealed position.
 7. Thecapsule of claim 6, wherein the first port is an inlet port of thecapsule; and the second port is an outlet port of the capsule.
 8. Avolatile substance distribution system comprising: a base unit having abase unit housing that supports a fan and that defines an air openingfor an airflow of air driven by the fan, the base unit including aprojection that projects from the base unit housing; and a capsuleconfigured to be removably supported on the base unit, the capsuleincluding: a housing with a port, the port at least partly defined by aseal surface, the housing configured to move between an engaged positionand a disengaged position relative to the base unit, the housing, in theengaged position, being removably supported on the base unit with theport fluidly connected to the air opening of the base unit, the housing,in the disengaged position, being spaced apart from the base unit; avolatile substance member that includes a volatile substance, thevolatile substance member contained within the housing; and a sealmember that is supported by the housing for movement between a sealedposition and an unsealed position, at least part of the seal membersealing against the seal surface to close the port when in the sealedposition, the at least part of the seal member spaced at a distance fromthe seal surface to open the port when in the unsealed position; theseal member, when the capsule is disengaged from the base unit, being inthe sealed position; and the projection of the base unit, when thecapsule is engaged with the base unit, being received in the capsule tosupport the seal member in the unsealed position such that air moved bythe fan flows through the port.
 9. The system of claim 8, wherein thebase unit includes a receptacle that is recessed into the base unithousing along a longitudinal axis; wherein the projection is one of aplurality of projections of the base unit, the plurality of projectionsbeing spaced about the longitudinal axis, wherein the air opening isdisposed proximate the receptacle; wherein the port of the capsule isreceived in the receptacle when engaged with the base unit with the portsubstantially centered on the longitudinal axis and aligned with the airopening; and wherein the plurality of projections of the base unit arereceived in the capsule to support the seal member in the unsealedposition.
 10. The system of claim 9, wherein the housing of the capsuleincludes a seal support member and an elongate member that extendsacross the port to subdivide the inlet port into a plurality of inletopenings; and wherein at least one of the plurality of inlet openings isconfigured to receive one of the plurality of projections.
 11. Thesystem of claim 9, wherein the receptacle is recessed in a firstdirection along the longitudinal axis; and wherein the plurality ofprojections project in a second direction along the longitudinal axis,the second direction being opposite the first direction.
 12. The systemof claim 8, wherein the capsule includes a tapered underside surfacethat faces out of the port and that is configured to abut the projectionand rotate the capsule for receiving the projection when engaging thecapsule with the base unit.
 13. The system of claim 8, wherein the baseunit includes a receptacle that is recessed into the base unit housing;and wherein the capsule is nested within the receptacle when engagedwith the base unit.
 14. The system of claim 8, wherein the seal memberis biased toward the sealed position.
 15. The system of claim 8, whereinthe port is a first port and the seal member is a first seal member;wherein the housing of the capsule defines a second port, the housingconfigured to accept the airflow through the housing between the firstport and the second port; and further comprising a second seal memberthat is supported by the housing for movement between a sealed positionand an unsealed position, the second seal member, in the sealedposition, closing the second port, and the second port being open whenthe second seal member is in the unsealed position.
 16. The system ofclaim 15, wherein the first port is an inlet port of the capsule;wherein the second port is an outlet port of the capsule; and whereinthe air opening of the base unit is an air outlet of the base unit. 17.The system of claim 16, wherein the second seal member is configured topassively move from the sealed position to the unsealed position due topressure from the air moved by the fan into the capsule.
 18. The systemof claim 8, wherein the seal surface is annular; and wherein the sealmember includes an underside that seals against the seal surface todefine an annular seal when the seal member is in the sealed position.19. A method of manufacturing a volatile substance distribution systemcomprising: forming a housing of a capsule to have a port, the port atleast partly defined by a seal surface, the housing configured to movebetween an engaged position and a disengaged position relative to a baseunit, the housing, in the engaged position, being removably supported onthe base unit with the port fluidly connected to the air opening of thebase unit, the housing, in the disengaged position, being spaced apartfrom the base unit; providing a volatile substance member that includesa volatile substance within the housing; and supporting a seal member bythe housing for movement between a sealed position and an unsealedposition, at least part of the seal member sealing against the sealsurface to close the port when in the sealed position, the at least partof the seal member spaced at a distance from the seal surface to openthe port when in the unsealed position; the seal member, when thecapsule is disengaged from the base unit, being in the sealed position;and the seal member, when the capsule is engaged with the base unit,configured to be supported in the unsealed position by a projection ofthe base unit that is received in the capsule such that air moved by thefan flows through the port.
 20. The method of claim 19, furthercomprising forming the base unit to include the projection.